Pennsylvania Declares Statewide Code Red Air Day as Wildfire Smoke Pushes AQI to 184

3 articles · Updated · WPVI-TV · Jul 16

AQI hit 184 early Thursday in parts of Pennsylvania, prompting a statewide Code Red Air Quality Action Day as smoke from Canada and Minnesota moved into the state.
DEP said the smoke is combining with high heat, and meteorologists warned conditions could fluctuate through the day depending on wind direction.
Dr. Panagis Galiatsatos said smoke particles can lodge deep in the lungs, causing inflammation, coughing, headaches and nausea, while raising heart attack or stroke risks for people with vascular issues.
Above 100 AQI, he said everyone should limit time outdoors; Philadelphia health officials also urged residents to monitor conditions and go inside if breathing becomes difficult.
Philadelphia faced a worse Canadian smoke episode in June 2023, when AQI reached the maroon category and officials advised everyone to stay indoors.

Sources

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